Manufacturing strategy formulation process - evidence from SMEs

Paper in proceedings, 2012

This paper presents an empirical study of the formulation process of manufacturing strategies using a conceptual framework in small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises. SMEs are known to have an informal and unintentional strategy formulation process and this study shows that SMEs can benefit using guidance in the manufacturing strategy formulation process. The conceptual framework provided a structure, which facilitates the understanding and the way of working. Other benefits are a closer dialogue between different functions of a company, a shared view in the organisation of improvements in manufacturing and a common view of their competitive priorities.